Whether you’re looking for a destination that offers a window into our nation’s dramatic history, exciting outdoor excursions or just a weekend of top-notch dining, shopping and relaxation, Marietta, Ohio and our surrounding region have more fun than you ever knew small towns could hold.
Established in 1788, Marietta is the oldest city in the state and the first official American settlement in the Northwest Territory. Known as the “Riverboat Town”, we’re located at the confluence of the Ohio and Muskingum rivers. Washington County’s earliest visitors arrived more than 2,000 years ago and today thousands of visitors continue to come and enjoy our charm, natural beauty, flowing rivers and rich heritage.
Like the people who visit and live here, no two Marietta adventures are exactly alike. Whether you like to spend your downtime exploring the past in a museum or historic site, navigating rivers on an authentic sternwheeler, taking in a live show or hiking the Appalachian foothills, Marietta is the perfect place to bring the entire family to play.
It’s always a thrill to watch the breathtakingly beautiful and grand riverboats arrive at the levee, but better yet, we recommend taking a relaxing cruise aboard the Valley Gem Sternwheeler. Our genuine sternwheel passenger vessel runs the Ohio and Muskingum Rivers and offers a variety of public cruises, delicious food and fun entertainment.
And who doesn’t love a good festival? Thousands of people come to Marietta and Washington County for our many festivals. In March, be sure to take in the River City Blues Festival which features the best live blues music in the valley. We congregate again at the end of July at the annual Harmar Days festival which celebrates our historic Harmar Bridge.
August is busy with our Belpre Homecoming, Howlin’ in the Alley, and Rivers Trails and Ales Festival and our granddaddy of all festivals takes place in September when Marietta hosts the Ohio River Sternwheel Festival.
The second annual Fall Festival will take place in October this year. Complete with a craft and vendor show, it’s a great day for families to enjoy all things fall! Enjoy hayrides, a pumpkin patch, petting zoo, car show, tractor show, artisan demonstrations, cider-making, food vendors, kid’s activities, live music and more.
When it’s time to eat, Marietta’s eclectic restaurants offer a taste for every palate and budget. From fine dining to pub fare, we serve up a world of fresh concepts showcasing a bounty of regional purveyors and seasonal flavors. From fresh brunches with river views to our vibrant nightlife perfect for date night or just an evening out with friends, we have something to suit every taste.
From historical attractions to outdoor excursions, there’s so much to experience in Marietta and Washington County. It’s tough to see everything in one trip – but it’s still fun to try! Visit our website at www.MariettaOhio.org to request a free copy of our visitor guide and start planning your trip today!
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